The World Cup dream has cruelly ended for Dejan Kulusevski, as the Tottenham talisman is officially out of Sweden's squad for the upcoming global showpiece. A brutal year-long battle with a knee injury has ultimately sidelined one of Europe's most dynamic playmakers, leaving fans heartbroken.
Key Points:
- Dejan Kulusevski excluded from Sweden's World Cup squad due to ongoing knee injury.
- Tottenham star has been sidelined since May 2025, undergoing two surgeries.
- Coach Graham Potter confirmed the 26-man roster.
- Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres and Liverpool's Alexander Isak headline the attacking talent.
A Heartbreaking Absence for the Maestro
It's a devastating blow for Kulusevski, who has fought tirelessly to regain fitness since suffering a severe knee injury in May 2025 during Spurs' match against Crystal Palace. The injury marked the beginning of an arduous 12-month recovery, including two separate surgeries to repair the damage.
Despite his fierce determination to recover, the 26-year-old has not yet rejoined full training at Hotspur Way. Instead, his intensive rehabilitation has taken place abroad, far from the competitive pressures of the pitch.
De Zerbi's Concerns Prove Prophetic
The news, while crushing for the player, doesn't come as a complete shock within the Tottenham camp. Manager Roberto De Zerbi had previously voiced his doubts about Kulusevski's readiness for the United States-bound tournament.
De Zerbi emphasized the critical importance of competitive match fitness. "I don't know the situation well," he stated. "For me, it’s difficult to understand how he can play at the World Cup if he didn't play any games this season."
Sweden's Squad: Premier League Powerhouses Lead the Line
Even without their creative spark, Sweden's squad, under coach Graham Potter, still boasts significant Premier League talent. Fans will be excited to see Arsenal's prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres and Liverpool's dynamic forward Alexander Isak spearheading the attack.
There's also positive news for another Tottenham talent, as promising young prospect Lucas Bergvall earned a spot in the traveling party. The squad features a strong English connection, with Brighton's Yasin Ayari, Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof, Leeds' Gabriel Gudmundsson, and Newcastle's Anthony Elanga all making the cut.
Potter has clearly balanced experienced defensive stalwarts with an array of exciting, dynamic attackers. This blend will be crucial as Sweden prepares to tackle a challenging group stage.
Group F: A Gauntlet Awaits in Texas
Sweden faces a formidable challenge in Group F, with their campaign kicking off against Tunisia on June 15. A high-stakes clash against the Netherlands follows five days later, before they conclude their group-stage journey against Japan.
Without Kulusevski's unique flair and vision, the onus will be heavily on Potter's other stars to step up. Their ability to deliver crucial performances will determine Sweden's chances of progressing deep into the knockout rounds from their Texas-based camp.
